February 15, 2013

YEP Program Guides Students Toward Professional Success

For the second consecutive year, the Office of Internships & Career Development is presenting the Young Emerging Professionals Program Series (YEP), from February 20th-27th. YEP is open to all Emmanuel College students seeking to develop and improve their professional skill sets in professional, interview and dining etiquette, networking, dressing for success, and making the most of career and job fairs. The series of programs will advise students on how first impressions can impact their future career.

The series kicks off with "First Impressions," a networking event that will include panel discussions on etiquette and professionalism, on February 20th at 5 p.m. in the Fenway Room of the Administration Building. During this event, students may enter to win a professional makeover-a head-to-toe ensemble including a new suit, shirt, shoes and accessories. One of last year's makeover winners, Imani Green '13, quickly realized just how critical the right outfit was when heading out into the working world.

"I had never owned a suit before and didn't realize how empowering it would feel to wear one," Green said. "I wore the suit to an interview where I was offered the position, and I honestly feel that the suit helped me to carry myself with the demeanor that ultimately got me the internship."

The YEP Committee has also invited several community and professional groups targeted at young adults to participate in the first-ever Young Professionals Group Fair on February 25th at noon in the Atrium of the Jean Yawkey Center. This event will showcase opportunities to get involved with local young adult groups that share common interests and promote civic engagement and networking, as well as personal and professional development. Students can stop by to meet representatives from various groups and learn how to get involved both before and after their graduation from Emmanuel.

The 2012 series' other makeover winner, Xavier Everson '13, found the information the YEP programs provided to be invaluable to his professional endeavors. He hopes other students will take advantage of the networking opportunities being offered, including a Young Alumni Panel featuring recent graduates reflecting on the realities of the professional or graduate world as well as their own career journeys.

"The program, as well as the makeover, gave me the confidence to put myself out in the competitive workforce and have an edge," Everson said. "I encourage anyone to do this program if they would like to know what employers are really looking for in the hiring process. The YEP program is a great opportunity for all."

The YEP series also includes a tie and scarf drive, a training session for EC Career Connect (EC3) and a finale dinner on February 27th, during which students can network with alumni and learn about dining etiquette. The winner of this year's professional makeover will also be revealed at the finale dinner.

The Young Emerging Professionals Program Series is sponsored by the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, Academic Resource Center, Counseling Center, Center for Mission Engagement, Development & Alumni Relations, Student Activities and Multicultural Programs and the Office of Internships & Career Development.

Check out the events calendar for more information on the YEP Program Series.